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(Tue 13, Wed 14 & Thu 15 Oct: 10:30am) Can you craft a story? Professional storytellers Sarah Wedderburn-Ogilvy and Ailsa Dixon invite you to fun-filled sessions learning a different iconic Aesop fable every day. Explore stories through games and movement and learn the skills you need to develop your own storycraft. A great introduction to the art of live storytelling for aspiring young tellers aged 7-10 years; pick your favourite story and book for one session or start to really build your repertoire with multiple sessions. Tue 13: The Crow and the PitcherWed 14: The Ant and the GrasshopperThu 15: The Birds, the Beasts and the Bat ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Tue 13 & Wed 14 Oct: 1:30pm) SOLD OUT Why are the Ravens gathering? And what is the secret of Ada's past? Inspired by the Brothers Grimm fairy tale, The Seven Ravens tells the story of a girl thrust into a dream world of quests, feathers and a glass mountain. Join Ada on a tiny world adventure over an extraordinary hand-felted landscape as she uncovers the secret of the ravens. Director, storyteller, performer and puppeteer Freda O'Byrne uses an eclectic mix of genres to explore the stories of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances. Her Suitcase Stories take audiences into a magical tiny world entirely within a suitcase, reaching out and engaging their imaginations through storytelling and puppetry. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
George Mackay Brown Library
(Thu 15 Oct: 1:30pm) Feathers & Fur: A Fabled Fandango is a tail-wagging, wing-flapping celebration of some of history’s most extraordinary animal heroes. Join storytellers Lea Taylor and Nicola Wright for a lively mix of traditional storytelling, song, humour and audience participation as they uncover the remarkable true tales of courageous dogs and heroic pigeons. Meet Laika, the space-travelling dog who reached for the stars, Winkie the pigeon whose actions helped save lives during wartime, and other feathered and furry legends whose bravery, loyalty and determination have often gone unnoticed. Along the way, discover why pigeons may be far cleverer than their reputation suggests, and whether dogs really deserve the title of “man’s best friend”. You are invited to sing along, join in a playful Quiz of Courage, and compete for the chance to earn prestigious honours in the Golden Poop Scoop Awards in a heartwarming, quirky and entertaining adventure celebrating the animals who have worked, served and sometimes saved us without ever asking for the credit. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 16 Oct: 11am) Meet cheeky monkeys up to mischief on the Royal Mile, elephants on parade at the Castle and determined dogs whose loyalty made them famous. These fascinating tales, inspired by Edinburgh’s rich past, bring to life some of the city’s most unusual and beloved animal characters. Along the way, children and adults alike will be invited to sing, clap, chant, and join in the storytelling as the adventures unfold. Perfect for families, this interactive show combines history, folklore, storytelling and song in a celebration of Edinburgh’s famous furry friends. Come along, join the fun and discover the animal antics hidden within the streets and stories of Scotland’s capital city! ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Meet at Scottish Storytelling Centre
(Sat 17 Oct) Celebrate international Intangible Cultural Heritage Day with an open-doors day of family fun at the Scottish Storytelling Centre. Explore our shared living heritage through story, crafts, dance, music and song with a line-up of come and try workshops and drop-in activity for all ages. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Sun 18 Oct: 2pm) From gifting bears and bearing gifts to Kings, join our young hero Beloved and his Bear on an epic journey and explore our relationship to our feral forefathers. Drawing on Icelandic saga and Scandinavian folktales join storyteller Jan Bee Brown and musician Toby Hawks for some grrreat tales. Family-friendly and dementia-inclusive. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a fortnightly session of stories, music, community and friendship, with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sat 24 Oct) Encounter birds, beasts and beasties of all kinds with a full day of free fun at the National Museum of Scotland, featuring stories and crafts for all the family. Over the course of the day you can...Venture into the woods with Claire McNicol for stories of woodland and forest, the changing seasons and birds and beasts that live among the trees.Dive under the sea with Janis Mackay for stories of sea creatures both real and mythical and tales of tide, weather and wave.Go wild with Macastory on a Story Safari around the museum and see what you can discover.Meet the wee-est of the Wee Folk with Gauri Raje and Patrick Chadwick, featuring magical footage of the bugs and beasties who have lived here since before the Highland Boundary Fault formed (MILLIONS of years!). Between stories and adventures, there will be plenty of family-friendly crafts and activities to keep you entertained. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
National Museum of Scotland
(Sat 24 Oct: 11am) If you could have your own wings to take you anywhere, what would they be like? Join Turkish storyteller, children's author and educator Nazife Burcu Takıl for a joyful, highly interactive family storytelling experience inspired by the colours, songs and traditions that connect us across cultures. Together, you'll create your own magical wings before setting off on an unforgettable adventure through the Tunnel of Rhymes, under the Song Tree and across the shimmering Lake of Colours. Along the way, help shape the story through movement, music, imagination and play, becoming the wind, the rain, the snow and even the changing seasons. Blending English-language storytelling with Turkish words, songs and playful participation, Wings of Colour celebrates kindness, belonging, friendship and the joy of discovering that every colour, every voice and every culture has something wonderful to share. Because when we fly together, our differences become our greatest strength. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sat 31 Oct: 10:30am - SOLD OUT) Join storyteller, illustrator, and printmaker Morvern Graham against the backdrop of her Folkloria! exhibition for a wonderful morning of stories, crafting and mask-making to celebrate Samhuinn. Come in the Halloween spirit and be prepared to get crafty before parading your new masks around the Storytelling Centre and out into Edinburgh’s Old Town. Costumes are welcomed and encouraged! ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Tue 13, Wed 14 & Thu 15 Oct: 10:30am) Can you craft a story? Professional storytellers Sarah Wedderburn-Ogilvy and Ailsa Dixon invite you to fun-filled sessions learning a different iconic Aesop fable every day. Explore stories through games and movement and learn the skills you need to develop your own storycraft. A great introduction to the art of live storytelling for aspiring young tellers aged 7-10 years; pick your favourite story and book for one session or start to really build your repertoire with multiple sessions. Tue 13: The Crow and the PitcherWed 14: The Ant and the GrasshopperThu 15: The Birds, the Beasts and the Bat ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Tue 13 & Wed 14 Oct: 1:30pm) SOLD OUT Why are the Ravens gathering? And what is the secret of Ada's past? Inspired by the Brothers Grimm fairy tale, The Seven Ravens tells the story of a girl thrust into a dream world of quests, feathers and a glass mountain. Join Ada on a tiny world adventure over an extraordinary hand-felted landscape as she uncovers the secret of the ravens. Director, storyteller, performer and puppeteer Freda O'Byrne uses an eclectic mix of genres to explore the stories of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances. Her Suitcase Stories take audiences into a magical tiny world entirely within a suitcase, reaching out and engaging their imaginations through storytelling and puppetry. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
George Mackay Brown Library
(Thu 15 Oct: 1:30pm) Feathers & Fur: A Fabled Fandango is a tail-wagging, wing-flapping celebration of some of history’s most extraordinary animal heroes. Join storytellers Lea Taylor and Nicola Wright for a lively mix of traditional storytelling, song, humour and audience participation as they uncover the remarkable true tales of courageous dogs and heroic pigeons. Meet Laika, the space-travelling dog who reached for the stars, Winkie the pigeon whose actions helped save lives during wartime, and other feathered and furry legends whose bravery, loyalty and determination have often gone unnoticed. Along the way, discover why pigeons may be far cleverer than their reputation suggests, and whether dogs really deserve the title of “man’s best friend”. You are invited to sing along, join in a playful Quiz of Courage, and compete for the chance to earn prestigious honours in the Golden Poop Scoop Awards in a heartwarming, quirky and entertaining adventure celebrating the animals who have worked, served and sometimes saved us without ever asking for the credit. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 16 Oct: 11am) Meet cheeky monkeys up to mischief on the Royal Mile, elephants on parade at the Castle and determined dogs whose loyalty made them famous. These fascinating tales, inspired by Edinburgh’s rich past, bring to life some of the city’s most unusual and beloved animal characters. Along the way, children and adults alike will be invited to sing, clap, chant, and join in the storytelling as the adventures unfold. Perfect for families, this interactive show combines history, folklore, storytelling and song in a celebration of Edinburgh’s famous furry friends. Come along, join the fun and discover the animal antics hidden within the streets and stories of Scotland’s capital city! ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Meet at Scottish Storytelling Centre
(Sat 17 Oct) Celebrate international Intangible Cultural Heritage Day with an open-doors day of family fun at the Scottish Storytelling Centre. Explore our shared living heritage through story, crafts, dance, music and song with a line-up of come and try workshops and drop-in activity for all ages. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s Festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through the theme Bird and Beast. Across Scotland, from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway, the Western Isles to Aberdeenshire, we invite audiences to discover stories that illuminate the place of bird and beast in our traditions, folklore and myths. Gather round, follow the trail of feathers and footprints, and let your imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Training Venue at SSC
(Sun 18 Oct: 2pm) From gifting bears and bearing gifts to Kings, join our young hero Beloved and his Bear on an epic journey and explore our relationship to our feral forefathers. Drawing on Icelandic saga and Scandinavian folktales join storyteller Jan Bee Brown and musician Toby Hawks for some grrreat tales. Family-friendly and dementia-inclusive. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight. ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a fortnightly session of stories, music, community and friendship, with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sat 24 Oct) Encounter birds, beasts and beasties of all kinds with a full day of free fun at the National Museum of Scotland, featuring stories and crafts for all the family. Over the course of the day you can...Venture into the woods with Claire McNicol for stories of woodland and forest, the changing seasons and birds and beasts that live among the trees.Dive under the sea with Janis Mackay for stories of sea creatures both real and mythical and tales of tide, weather and wave.Go wild with Macastory on a Story Safari around the museum and see what you can discover.Meet the wee-est of the Wee Folk with Gauri Raje and Patrick Chadwick, featuring magical footage of the bugs and beasties who have lived here since before the Highland Boundary Fault formed (MILLIONS of years!). Between stories and adventures, there will be plenty of family-friendly crafts and activities to keep you entertained. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
National Museum of Scotland
(Sat 24 Oct: 11am) If you could have your own wings to take you anywhere, what would they be like? Join Turkish storyteller, children's author and educator Nazife Burcu Takıl for a joyful, highly interactive family storytelling experience inspired by the colours, songs and traditions that connect us across cultures. Together, you'll create your own magical wings before setting off on an unforgettable adventure through the Tunnel of Rhymes, under the Song Tree and across the shimmering Lake of Colours. Along the way, help shape the story through movement, music, imagination and play, becoming the wind, the rain, the snow and even the changing seasons. Blending English-language storytelling with Turkish words, songs and playful participation, Wings of Colour celebrates kindness, belonging, friendship and the joy of discovering that every colour, every voice and every culture has something wonderful to share. Because when we fly together, our differences become our greatest strength. ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
(Sat 31 Oct: 10:30am - SOLD OUT) Join storyteller, illustrator, and printmaker Morvern Graham against the backdrop of her Folkloria! exhibition for a wonderful morning of stories, crafting and mask-making to celebrate Samhuinn. Come in the Halloween spirit and be prepared to get crafty before parading your new masks around the Storytelling Centre and out into Edinburgh’s Old Town. Costumes are welcomed and encouraged! ~~~~~ Join us in the school holidays and throughout the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2026 for a selection of storytelling performances and events for all the family. This year’s festival explores the rich relationship between storytelling and the natural world through our theme Bird and Beast. Alongside a vibrant programme at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, storytellers across Scotland bring these tales to life this autumn through the Go Local programme. We proudly celebrate Scotland’s cèilidh tradition with an invitation into the story circle, extending a warm welcome to international guests who share their stories, traditions and contemporary practices alongside Scotland’s own world-class talent. Join us for some unforgettable tales and moments that bring us closer to nature, as we follow the trail of footprints and feathers and let our imagination take flight.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Storytelling Court
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